| J.529 |
Sonaka Jaataka | So.naka Jaataka |
The bodhisatva was born as Arindama, son of the Magadha king of Rajagaha. His friend
was the chaplain’s son Sonaka. Both studied in Takkasila and at the conclusion of
their studies, travelled around together in search of experience. In the course of
their travels, Arindama was elected to succeed the king of Benares who had died without
heir. Meanwhile Sonaka became a paccekabuddha. Forty years later Arindama wished
to see Sonaka but no-one could tell him his whereabouts in spite of large rewards
offered. Ten years later, Sonaka managed to contact Sonaka by sending a minstrel
boy far and wide singing a song composed by the king which expressed his desire to
meet Sonaka. At the meeting, the king failed to recognize Sonaka. Without revealing
his identity, Sonaka spoke to the king about the joys of renunciation and disappeared
into the air. Moved by his words, the king decided to give up the throne and follow
the ascetic life. He appointed his eldest son as king in his place and became an
ascetic, developing supranormal powers and being reborn in the Brahma-world. It was
related regarding the Buddha’s perfection of renunciation. |
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Jaataka |
Khuddhaka |
J.v.247ff. |
renunciation |